Suffolk Lawyer Backed By Bar For Judge Seat

SUFFOLK — The Suffolk Bar Association endorsed attorney E. Blair Harry on Friday as a replacement for outgoing General District Judge William W. Jones.

Jones is retiring in January, after the General Assembly names his replacement.

"It takes a two-thirds vote of a quorum to endorse a candidate. I hope the General Assembly follows the endorsement," said E. Grier Ferguson, Suffolk Bar Association president. Thirty-three of the 40 members were present.

Harry, a University of Richmond graduate, has served as a substitute judge on the General District bench for 10 years, Ferguson said.

He practices law in Suffolk at the firm of Pretlow, Eason and Pretlow.

Jones, 67, has served as a judge for 12 years. "I'll still sit some, if they need me, here or other places," he said.

Among other things, he is planning on gardening and traveling upon his retirement, he said.